Mental Health Day 2021

World Mental Health Day is commemorated every October 10. It aims to remind the population that the health of each human is the solid foundation for the construction of full and satisfying lives.

The overall purpose of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in its support.

The day provides an opportunity for all stakeholders working on related topics to talk about their initiatives and ideas. This includes what steps we need to follow to make mental healthcare a reality for people on a worldwide scale.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on everyone’s wellbeing, especially for the more vulnerable groups. Frontline workers, students, people living alone, and those with pre-existing mental health conditions have been particularly affected. Another consequence of the pandemic is the significant disruption of services for mental, neurological and substance use disorders, which has left many unprotected.

Yet, there is room for optimism. During the World Health Assembly in May 2021, governments from all around the world recognized the need to scale up quality mental health services at all levels. Some countries have also found new ways of providing mental health care to their populations.

VIDEO ABOUT THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND MENTAL HEALTH:

Each year millions of people face the reality of living with a mental illness.

“..we're not only acknowledging that mental health is important, but we're talking about it, putting it out there so that people who feel too much can get the help they need too," said Jessica Hull, an expert psychologist.

Raising mental health awareness can help you understand your symptoms, find professional treatment, and most importantly, break the stigma that leaves so many people suffering in secret.

Some may wonder what defines “poor mental health”. Although it is a multi-layered concept, it can be simply explained as when our mental health is not what we would want it to be. Finding it difficult to manage how we respond, feel and act to daily stresses could be potential signs.

However, it is relevant to note that such a complex idea does not have one single definition. Instead, it can mean different things to different people. Therefore, it is essential to know that if you are experiencing problems, help is always available.

This matter affects all of society and not just a small, isolated number. This is why starting conversations and raising awareness is the first step we must take for a healthier, more conscious future.

Remember, taking time out to remember a few simple ways to protect your own mental wellbeing could make all the difference. These include:

• Getting enough rest.

• Making time for yourself, family and friends

• Talk about how you feel.

• Getting to know who you are and what you think about. Do things that make you happy.

• Never forget to laugh regularly

• Cultivating and encouraging optimism in yourself and others, and trying to avoid over-thinking and comparisons with others – learn to balance and accept what you can and cannot change about yourself.

• Exercising regularly, preferably with someone else.

Dealing with mental illness is not easy. As you learn the signs of mental illnesses and understand what kind of help is needed to address them, you will be able to take care of your loved ones and yourself.

Remember, that you matter, that you are loved, and that you are not alone.

#mentalhealthday

Bibliography

WHO | World Health Organization. (n.d.) WHO. https://www.who.int/

What is Poor Mental Health?. (n.d.). Change your Mind. https://www.changeyourmindni.org/about-mental-health/what-is-poor-mental-health